76 Rolex A very attractive and remarkable, Day-Date, automatic wristwatch in yellow gold, with lapis lazuli dial, Chinese calendar, full set, reference 18038.

Estimate: € 40,000 –⁠ 80,000

The Rolex Day-Date has long been admired for its iconic status, diversification and most notably its timeless appeal. It represents Rolex’s first timepiece to display a separate day and date feature and was launched in 1956. While Rolex offered a range of Day-Date and Datejust models with exotic dial collection additionally including marble, onyx, opal, coral and malachite, but the lapis lazuli dial is perhaps the most recognizable for its unadorned beauty. The lapis lazuli, favorite gemstone of Egyptian pharaohs and Royal dynasties throughout history, is perhaps the most eye-pleasing version of dial: not only the deep blue color is breathtaking, but the stone’s natural inclusions add movement and flair to the dial. The process to produce one of these dial is very complicated due to the required size and quality of the mineral that is needed. In the end, the result is stunning. With a very appealing golden pyrite trace that traverses horizontally the dial and the absence of lume indexes, this dial bonds fabulously well with the watch’s yellow-gold case. The present watch is one extremely rare specimen of reference 18 038 with an ultra rare Chinese calendar and would be an incredible addition to any collection. A versatile, striking yet unassuming dress watch, the Lapis Lazuli Day-Date is the perfect example of a timeless watch with a contemporary flair.